art gallery of ontario tour

Art Gallery of Ontario

• St. Patrick • 5 min walk
• Osgoode • 7 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Art Gallery of Ontario - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Art Gallery of Ontario

• St. Patrick • 5 min walk
• Osgoode • 7 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Art Gallery of Ontario - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Art Gallery of Ontario

The exterior of the gallery is a fascinating work of modern art by Frank Gehry. It has a wide and comprehensive selection of art from the United States and Europe, including some famous paintings and sculptures, such as Rodin, and some excellent works from modern artists such as Lichtenstein or Warhol. We loved the clear setting of the museum and the explanations next to many exhibits that were very good and very creative.

Art Gallery of Ontario Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions

Explore near art gallery of ontario: where to stay, eat, and visit, art gallery of ontario reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

The most famous art museum in North America, bringing together the best art works from all over the world, and it is also a good place to enjoy the famous masterpieces. The scale is large and the environment is very good. Don't miss it.

Toronto must punch in|One time not enough to see the Ontario Art Museum ‍❤️ Chinese name: Ontario Art Museum English name: Art Gallery Of Ontario AGO recommendation index: The Art Museum is located in the center of Toronto, is the 8th largest art museum in North America, with more than 40,000 pieces in the collection. Among the exhibits are a series of works by the British sculptor Henry Moore (which occupies a large exhibition hall on the second floor), and there are often temporary special exhibitions by famous painters. I saw Rubens's exhibition last year, and this time I went to see the poster for the Picasso exhibition in June 2020. There is also the most attractive (especially the sister) Libo Point Queen Caojian Yasheng Mirror House infinity mirrors‼️ and it is a fixed exhibition in the art museum. It is not a temporary exhibition with a time limit like New York. There is an orange spiral staircase in the middle hall of the art museum. It is a net red. The photo is very ins wind. You can rotate the stairs to the fifth floor, you can see the cn tower part of the Sunday time period, and there are free naked models in the lobby on the first floor for the public to sketch in Linyi (of course, it is forbidden to take pictures) Detailed address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4 Traffic Raiders: Get off at St. Patrick Station and exit ⏰ Business hours: 10:00-17:30 (Monday closed, Wednesday and Friday extended to 20:30) Tickets: Free tours under 25 years old (age is very loose but18-25 friends must show ID, after all, some people especially the old foreign minister are too mature), 25 Canadian dollars for adults over 25 years old, free for local residents. Free visit from 18:00 to 21:00 every Wednesday night. Expected play time: 2-3 hour practical tips1⃣️ as long as 35 Canadian dollars, you can upgrade to the Annual Pass (annual card). For non-local residents, over 25 years old, and more than one visit to Toronto in a year, a visit costs $25, and the price of the annual ticket is worth twice, but a special exhibition may only be for museum members (only if you have a member card) 2⃣️ Photographs are allowed in the art museum (flash tripods and the like are not allowed). The words "No photo is allowed" are marked next to individual exhibits, and tourists still need to abide by the regulations. 3⃣️ Kuojian Yasun's mirror house is next to the cafe on the second floor. You need to make an appointment on the tablet computer at the entrance in advance. The English interface chooses a good time period (40 people per time period), leaving a mobile phone number (Chinese number is also available) and email address. Then calculate the time to queue up at the door of the mirror house in advance. It is recommended to avoid the peak and go early. I opened the door on Friday morning, so I don't need to queue at all ✌

The Ontario Museum of Art is a museum in Toronto, Canada, with a collection of more than 40,000 pieces of art in Europe, the United States, Canada and other places. It is the eighth largest art museum in North America. The collection spans from 100 AD to the present. The Ontario Museum of Art is located next to Chinatown. Tickets $25.

Recently,I spent 2 delightful days at the Art Gallery of Ontario with its fine multifarious collection of Art.I appreciated its fine,but not encyclopedic collection of European Paintings and works of Art.I saw delightful paintings by Giovanni Dei Biondo("Vision of Saint Benedict",Italian Medieval)Simon Marmion("Mass of Saint Gregory".Netherlandish Renaissance)Jacopo Tintoretto("Christ Cleaning Feet of Disciples",Italian Renaissance),Rembrandt("Portrait of Woman With Lap Dog",Dutch Master),Arent Arentz("Skaters in Winter on Amstel River".Dutch Master),Balthasar Ast("Stillife With Flowers,Dutch Master),Georges Delatour("Saint Anne With Infant Jesus")French Mannerism).Jiusepe Ribera("Saint Jerome",Spanish Mannerism,Giovanni Langetti("Isaac Blessing Jacob,Italian Gian Paolo Panini("Capriccio With Arch of Titus".Italian Neoclassicism))Thomas Gainesborough("Harvest Wagon",British Romanticism).James Tissot("Shopgirl",French Naturalism),Narcise Diaz de la Pena("Storm",French Realism),Claude Monet("Vethieul in Summer",quintessential French Impressionism),Camille Pissarro("Bridge in Rouen",French Impressionism),Gustave Caillebotte("Sailboats in Sea.French Impressionism)Armand Guillaumin("Les Trayas.Grey Day",French Expressionism),Theo Van Rhysellberghe("Trees",,Belgian Pointillism),Albert Marquet("Pont Neuf in Winter.French Postimpressionism)Pablo Picasso("Woman".Abstract),Emil Nolde(Feriengaste".German Expressionism)and Marc Chagall("Over Vitebsk"),among many others. I also savored fine sculpture at this wonderful art museum by Gian Bernini("Pope"),Angelo Pio("Saint Jerome")Rodin("Adam"),and a plethora of sculptural works by Henry Moore("Draped Woman".among others..Since this is a large art museum.I only covered a small portion of their works of Art in this review.Their collection of Canadian Art is tip top,but that will be the subject of a future review.

The gallery sometimes hosts exhibitions of famous people

The art gallery is very artistic and beautiful.

The Ontario Gallery is one of Toronto's iconic exhibition halls, and the entire exhibition hall is very unique in its architectural shape, like a crystal boat, at the entrance of the exhibition hall, a sculpture by the famous sculptor Henry Moore. The museum has a large collection of artworks from Europe, the United States and Canada, some paintings are very precious and come from the hands of the masters. It is very close to Toronto Chinatown, so you may wish to visit it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Art Gallery of Ontario

What's the address of art gallery of ontario.

Preston_Dominguez : 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1G4, Canada

What's the recommended attractions near Art Gallery of Ontario?

Jeremy_Dodson : I recommended University of Toronto,CN Tower,Toronto Islands,Royal Ontario Museum,Toronto's Chinatown

What hotels are near Art Gallery of Ontario?

Messiah_Dillon : Here are some hotels near Art Gallery of Ontario: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto,Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel,Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto,Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre,Chelsea Hotel Toronto

What restaurants are near Art Gallery of Ontario?

Judah_Dillard : You could try Rodney’s Toronto,Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse,Barberian's Steak House,Richmond Station,Pearl Diver

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Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest art galleries in North America with a collection of over 95,000 pieces of artwork. This impressive catalogue features a range of works from classical to the present day. It showcases Indigenous and Canadian artists, as well as internationally-renowned artists from around the world.  

The extensive 45,000 square metres of gallery space displays its permanent exhibits as well as temporary and travelling exhibitions. You can always expect to see a new piece of artwork or discover a new artist every time you visit.

Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario website

Art Gallery of Ontario | Destination Toronto

How to get to Art Gallery of Ontario

Location: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto

By transit: The AGO is easily accessible via the TTC subway and streetcar networks. The 505 Dundas Streetcar has stops conveniently located in front of the AGO.

By car: Paid parking lots are available within a short walking distance of the AGO.

Know before you go

The gallery can get very busy on weekends and holidays. Purchase tickets in advance online to save time .

Purchase an AGO Annual Pass and get a full year of unlimited visits to the AGO for an affordable price. Visitors 25 and under can purchase a Free Annual Pass .

The AGO offers free admission on the first Wednesday of each month from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Free tickets must be booked in advance .

Things to do at Art Gallery of Ontario

Discover more activities and experiences.

Roam through the collections

Stroll through the gallery spaces and discover the AGOs vast collection of artwork. Works include painting, photography, sculpture, prints, immersive installations and more.

Take an art class

Register for one of the AGOs art courses and unleash your inner artist. Adult courses are available for all skill levels, as well as fun workshops for children and youth .

Participate in fun events

Attend workshops, socials, live music events and even yoga classes throughout the year at the AGO. Check out their list of events to discover more unique activities.

Grab a bite

Stop by the AGO’s espresso bar for coffee and snacks during your visit. Book a table at the AGO Bistro for brunch, lunch or dinner and taste artful dishes.

Visit the gift shop

After you’re done in the galleries, pay a visit to the AGO Gift Shop . Browse through an eclectic collection of sculptures, home decor, jewellery, art books, prints, dishware and toys.

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Interesting facts about The Art Gallery of Ontario

From its inception, the Art Gallery of Ontario has focused on bringing people together and inspiring a new perspective through art.

Through the decades, the museum has undergone multiple renovations and expansions. Most notably was the renovation by world renowned and Toronto-born architect, Frank Gehry. Not only can you expect to see incredible pieces of art, but you’ll also be impressed by the rich architectural design of the building itself. Gehry’s design includes uniquely sculpted staircases and the extensive use of glass, bringing natural light into the gallery spaces.

Accessibility features

Accessible entrances/exits, information available in alternative format, service animals welcome, support persons welcome, wheelchair accessible, wheelchair and/or mobility devices available.

Last updated:  April 12, 2024

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Toronto Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

With half of its 3 million population (6 million if you count the greater metro area) born outside of Canada and over 160 languages spoken in the city, Toronto is often considered to be the most multicultural city in the world. It offers tons of diversity and culture, with not only a Chinatown and Little Italy, but Greektown, Koreatown, Little India, Little Poland, Little Portugal, Little Malta, and more.

There are plenty of free and cheap activities that can make this an affordable place to visit too. The more I visit, the more I love it.

This travel guide to Toronto can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredible city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Toronto

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Toronto

1. Visit the CN Tower

This iconic 550-meter (1,804-foot) tower is a fixture of Toronto’s skyline. Built in 1975, it was the world’s tallest free-standing tower from 1975-2007 (when the Burj Khalifa surpassed it). You can head up to the top to get spectacular panoramic views of the city and enjoy 360-degree views if the weather is good, and if you’re feeling daring, take the circular, hands-free edge walk 116 stories above Toronto. For a unique splurge meal with a view, their 360-degree rotating restaurant has two-course meals for 75 CAD and three courses for 90 CAD. Tickets cost 43 CAD.

2. Tour the Art Gallery of Ontario

Established in 1900, the AGO is home to almost 100,000 items in its permanent collection. It’s one of the biggest museums in Canada, with a rotating calendar of temporary exhibits as well as an artist-in-residence program. Admission is 25 CAD, except for Wednesday nights from 6pm-9pm when admission is free. Visitors 25 and under always enter free too. Get your skip-the-line tickets here .

3. Wander the Royal Ontario Museum

Home to over 6 million items and 40 different galleries, the ROM has exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient China, indigenous Canadians, Medieval Europe, Ancient Egypt, and much more. It’s the best museum in the city and fun for adults and kids alike. They have rotating exhibitions of photography, prints, modern art, and unique themes like the T-Rex exhibit. Tickets are 26 CAD .

4. Spend a day at the beach

The beaches of Lake Ontario are a relaxing place to spend the day during the summer. You can stroll along the boardwalk, eat at one of the many restaurants, or rent a boat and head out on the lake. The best beaches include Woodbine (Toronto’s most popular), as well as Canada’s famous nude beach, Hanlan’s Point, which is reachable by Hanlan’s Point ferry. For something more sporty, Cherry Beach, is the place for kitesurfing, kayaking, windsurfing, etc., and is reachable by bus. Lastly, Sunnyside beach is popular for picnics, stand-up paddle boarding, and its many cafes.

5. Enjoy Toronto Island Park

Spend an inexpensive day at Toronto Island Park and enjoy the city views, hang out on the beach, play volleyball, or picnic. Take a stroll down the boardwalk with its beautiful scenery of Lake Ontario, Thompson Park, and Ward’s Island Beach. Or take advantage of other activities like bird watching, boating, fishing, swimming, gardens, and hiking. There is also a small amusement park that’s great for kids. A return ferry ticket is 8.70 CAD, which can only be purchased online (the ride is just 10-15 minutes). Check ferry schedules as they are seasonal.

Other Things to See and Do in Toronto

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do in a new city is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Tour Guys offer 90-minute free tours that cover the main downtown sights and give you a solid introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! If you’d rather do a bike tour, 3.5-hour tours with Toronto Bicycle Tours cost 63 CAD.

2. Enjoy the Harbourfront Centre

This cultural hub is a great spot to visit during the warm summer months. Located on the water at Queens Quay, it hosts over 4,000 events a year, including many free festivals and concerts. Check their website to see what’s happening during your visit. There are also a couple of free art galleries with rotating exhibits (Artport and The Power Plant) and in the winter, they create an outdoor skating rink here too.

3. Bike the Don Valley

These trails are perfect for any outdoorsy travelers. The trails range from easy to very hard and are accessible from the city (beginning at the intersection of Lakeshore Blvd and Cherry St.). While on the trails, you’ll not only enjoy being in an urban green space but you’ll also be treated to a mini art gallery of ever-changing outdoor art installations. If you’re not into biking, there are also walking and running trails. Check out the park map to plan your route .

4. Go ax throwing

If you’re looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, the city has a couple of different ax-throwing venues, such as BATL, where you can book a timeslot and then compete against your friends in an ax-throwing competition. Think of it like bowling, but with throwing axes. You don’t need to bring your own ax (but you can) and you can also bring your own drinks too! It’s a fun way to spend a couple of hours. One hour costs 30 CAD per person.

5. Wander Kensington Market

One of the oldest and most well-known neighborhoods in the city, this bohemian and multicultural hub offers an eclectic mix of alternative restaurants, street food stalls, and unique shops. There are often free concerts and festivals here during the summer too. It’s one of my favorite places to wander around ( you can take a tour around the area too ). Don’t miss Bunner’s Bakeshop if you have a sweet tooth!

6. See the Hockey Hall of Fame

Canadians take two things seriously: hockey and hockey. Opened in 1943, this museum is dedicated to the history of their favorite sport. It is both a museum and a hall of fame, full of memorabilia, artifacts, and even an interactive game where you can test your slapshot against a virtual goalie. Admission is 25 CAD.

7. Explore St. Lawrence Market and Gallery

Originally established in the early 19th century, this historic public market has endless rows of local treats to taste and buy. . There are three different sections: the North Market, South Market, and St. Lawrence Hall. With over 100 vendors, the markets have everything from bakers, butchers, artisans, produce stalls, and on Sundays, there’s an antique market with over 80 antique dealers. Food tours are available as well . The Market Gallery is located on the second floor above the markets and inside you can learn about the evolution of the city via historical documents, film, photography, and artifacts. Admission to both is free.

8. Eat Chinese food

Toronto’s Chinese community is one of the largest in the city, making up over 12.5% of Toronto’s population. As a result, Chinatown in Toronto is gigantic and still retains a lot of the authenticity that’s missing in many other Chinatowns around the world. After the original Chinatown was demolished in the 1950s to make way for government buildings, the local Chinese population relocated to the intersection of Spadina and Dundas Street West. Definitely visit and eat a few meals — they are delicious and super cheap. For tasty eats, don’t miss Mother’s Dumplings, Happy Lamb Hot Pot, and Red Room.

9. Visit the Ontario Science Center

This interactive museum is perfect for anyone traveling with kids. There’s an indoor rainforest, tornado machine, soundproof tunnel, balance testing machines, planetarium, tons of interactive exhibits, and so much more. There’s also an IMAX Dome which plays educational films. Admission is 22 CAD.

10. Tour the Steam Whistle Brewery

Steam Whistle Brewing is an award-winning independent brewery located in the historic John Street Roundhouse (previously a steam locomotive repair facility), near the Rogers Center and CN Tower. The brewery offers tours for 20 CAD (which includes a sample of their beer). Tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked in advance on their website. There is even an art gallery on-site, showcasing local artists. Check out the Steam Whistle Biergarten and Taproom and enjoy a beer and some tasty food like burgers, pasta, fish and chips, or their Steam Whistle brined chicken with gravy.

11. See Casa Loma

Constructed between 1911-1914, Casa Loma is the former estate of Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, an entrepreneur and soldier. Touring this real-life ‘medieval’ castle is awesome. There are four levels to check out through a self-guided tour. Highlights include an indoor conservatory with its own fountain, and the Oak Room, an ornate drawing room with tons of wood paneling that took over three years to complete. They also host an amazing haunted house here every Halloween. Admission is 40 CAD ( get your tickets in advance here .)

12. Enjoy Canada’s Wonderland

Filled with rides, roller coasters, food, games, shops, theaters, a water park, and live shows, this is the largest amusement park in Canada and loads of fun. Located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the city, you’ll want to arrive early as the park fills up quickly in the summer! Tickets start at 29.99 CAD.

13. Catch a ball game

Toronto’s major league baseball team, the Blue Jays, have been doing quite well in recent years and their fan base has exploded. Last-minute tickets can be found online with prices for their spring training starting at 25 CAD. Located right downtown and on the waterfront, this is a great activity for sports fans.

14. Attend Word on the Street

Every September, Queen’s Park is host to Canada’s largest annual outdoor book and magazine festival. You can browse through hundreds of books, magazines, and literary exhibitor booths. There are also readings from famous authors like Margaret Atwood and David Suzuki. Admission is free.

15. See the Toronto International Film Festival

Toronto plays host to the stars every September, so if you’re in town be sure to grab tickets — there’s a good chance you’ll see some great films and you might just bump into a celebrity too! With almost 500,000 visitors, this is one of the largest film festivals in the world. Screenings cost 20-30 CAD, with discussions, workshops, and other events to attend as well. The festival has lots of volunteer opportunities available as well.

16. Gorge at Summerlicious & Winterlicious

Every summer and winter, the city’s best restaurants take part in a massive prix-fixe food festival. Over 200 restaurants take part, with plates starting at 23 CAD for a multi-course meal. It’s an amazing way to sample the city’s best dishes on a budget!

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

• Calgary Travel Guide
• Montreal Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Toronto Travel Costs

Hostels – Toronto only has a few hostels. Dorms with 6-8 beds cost between 30-45 CAD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and most hostels have self-catering facilities to cook your own food. A couple of hostels include free breakfast. Private rooms begin at 75-90 CAD per night.

Hotels – Budget two-star hotels start at 115-125 CAD per night. These usually include free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like a TV, coffee/tea maker, and occasionally a continental breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in the city, with private rooms starting at 60 CAD per night, though they average closer to 100 CAD. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 140-180 CAD per night.

Food – The food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. There’s a lively Chinatown, a Little Italy, Little Tokyo, Little Portugal, and much more. If there is a cuisine you’re craving, you can find it here. The city is also a hub for vegan and vegetarian fare, with much of it centered in Vegandale (a stretch of Queen Street with a host of vegan places). Be sure to sample some of Canada’s famous staples like poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about 20 CAD for something like a burger and fries. A quick hot dog or sausage on the street (which are incredibly popular) costs 3-4 CAD. A three-course meal with a drink is at least 50 CAD.

McDonald’s (and other fast food) costs around 13 CAD for a combo meal. A medium pizza is 15-20 CAD while Chinese food costs 9-15 CAD for a main dish.

Beer is around 7 CAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 4.75 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend around 50-65 CAD on groceries per week, which includes basic staples like bread, veggies, rice, pasta, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants include Bar Chef (high-end, innovative cocktail bar) and Planta Yorkville (upscale and plant-based).

Backpacking Toronto Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 CAD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach and taking free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of 160 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out more, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the ROM or the CN Tower.

On a “luxury” budget of 325 CAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Toronto Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Toronto is one of the most expensive cities in the country. However, like any big city, there are plenty of ways to save. Here are some tips to keep you from breaking the bank when you visit Toronto:

• Get a City Pass – Tourists can purchase a City Pass for 82.91 CAD that includes admission to the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, the Toronto Zoo, and more. You’ll save a ton if you’re planning to visit most of these attractions.
• Stay with a local – Toronto doesn’t have many hostels (and the hostels aren’t super cheap either) so try to Couchsurf with a local to save money. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and get insider tips from a local.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.
• Eat street food – You can find cheap hot dogs for around 3-4 CAD all around the downtown core. Fill up on them if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis and rideshares in Toronto are expensive. Stick to the TTC (public transportation), which can get you anywhere you need to go.
• Visit the AGO on Wednesdays – The Art Gallery of Ontario is free on Wednesday evenings. If you want to visit, be sure to visit then to save money.
• Get a PRESTO card – This public transportation card costs 6 CAD but it offers discounts on rides as well as the ability to get a day pass (13.50 CAD), which saves you a ton if you plan on exploring the whole city.

Where to Stay in Toronto

Toronto doesn’t have a ton of hostels. Here are two suggested places to stay:

• The Only Backpacker’s Inn
• The Parkdale Hostellerie

How to Get Around Toronto

Public transportation – Toronto has a comprehensive system of buses, trams, and subways that link the entire city called the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). Cash fares are 3.25 CAD or 3.20 CAD if you have a reloadable PRESTO card. You can purchase a day pass for 13.50 CAD with a PRESTO card as well (the card costs 6 CAD).

The TTC also manages the bus to Pearson Airport, which takes around 45-65 minutes from downtown and costs 3.25 (regular fare). There is also an express train to the airport called the UP Express. It costs 12.35 CAD and takes 25 minutes from downtown.

Taxi – Taxis in Toronto are expensive, starting at 4.44 CAD and costing an additional 1.75 CAD per kilometer. With traffic being relatively slow in the city, it’s best to skip the taxis.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Toronto.

Bicycle – Bike Share Toronto offers daily passes for 7 CAD and 72-hour passes for 15 CAD. They have over 7,185 bikes spread across 630 stations around the city. You can buy a pass via their app .

Car Rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 30 CAD per day. However, unless you’re planning to head out of the city, I would skip the car rental. Parking is expensive and you don’t need a car to get around.

When to Go to Toronto

Toronto is busiest in the summer, with June-August being the most popular time to visit. The beaches are open, there are tons of events and festivals, and the weather is hot (bordering on stifling due to the humidity). Expect daily averages around 27°C (80°F) though the humidity can make that feel well over 30°C (87°F).

Winters in Toronto are cold, windy, and snowy. It’s not a good time to visit if you want to do lots of outdoor activities, but you’ll avoid the crowds and flights are cheaper as well. Expect daily highs around -7°C (19°F) though it’s common to experience dips to -20°C (-4°F) as well.

Both early fall and late spring are excellent times to visit. The weather is warm, you can do all the outdoor exploration you want, and there aren’t many tourists around. Accommodation is the most plentiful and affordable around this time too and there are lots of farmer’s markets happening as well.

How to Stay Safe in Toronto

Toronto is very safe and you’re unlikely to have any problems while you’re here (it’s actually ranked as one of the safest cities in North America). Your greatest risk is a petty crime like pickpocketing. Just make sure you aren’t flashing your valuables around and that you keep an eye on your wallet when on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs in the city.

While no areas are off-limits, travelers might want to avoid walking around alone at night in the areas around Regent Park and Jane & Finch as you’re likely to have more petty crime in those areas late at night.

Scams are rare here, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about the common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you’re traveling in the winter, be careful as severe winter storms can occur. Conversely, in the summer, the city can get sweltering. Be sure to stay hydrated when walking around as the humidity can be taxing.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The number for emergency services is 911.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Toronto Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more information? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

School Visits

Inspire your class with a visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario. The AGO offers self-guided tours, guided tours, and art-making studio sessions for students from JK - Grade 12. Our guided tours and studio sessions are 75 minutes long and can accommodate groups of up to 25 students.

All school visits must be booked in advance via the form below and fees apply. This includes quick entry to the gallery via our dedicated groups entrance, spaces for your group to meet, lunch table seating, and designated drop-off and pick up locations as well as access to a coat rack in the Weston Family Learning Centre.

$410 – Guided Tour/Studio (per 25 students) $175 – Self-Guided Tour (per 25 students)

Bookings must be made at least four (4) weeks prior to a guided gallery visit and at least three (3) days before a self-guided visit. Once we have received your booking request, an AGO representative will be in touch.

GUIDED SCHOOL TOURS

Group booking - school guided tours program descriptions.

Once upon a Masterpiece: Art and Storytelling

Explore art, stories, and adventures in this guided tour. Students will use the inquiry process to identify and explore visual art forms from various collections and respond to them through play-based learning. Explore select works from the Special exhibitions KAWS: FAMILY  and Making Her Mark . Curriculum: Kindergarten curriculum

Going Green: Art and the Environment

How does the environment act as inspiration? In this tour, students analyze how natural and human-made environments inspire artmaking, and how artists can become activists by responding creatively to environmental issues. Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Language, Geography

Art and Identity

What does identity mean? How do artists express their personal and cultural identities through the works they create? In this tour, students analyze and reflect on diverse identities represented in the AGO's collection through the lens of their own lived experiences. Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Language

In a Time Machine: Art and Storytelling

Discover the rich tapestry of visual narratives woven by artists in the collection from diverse cultures, time periods and perspectives. Engage with their stories and unleash your own creativity through the critical analysis process. Explore select works from the Special exhibitions KAWS: FAMILY  and Making Her Mark . Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Language

How does the environment act as inspiration? In this tour, students analyze how natural and human-made environments inspire art-making, and how artists can become activists by responding creatively to environmental issues. Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Language, Geography

Art, Identity and Intersectionality

Artists possess valuable insights about themselves and the world they inhabit. In this tour, students explore personal and cultural expressions of identity through art, while also examining the social and cultural influences that shape both individual and collective identities. Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Language

Students discover how global connections and cultural exchange have influenced artists and art movements. Students explore works of art inspired by major international events that have had an impact on humans worldwide. Explore select works from the Special exhibitions KAWS: FAMILY  and Making Her Mark . Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Canadian and World Studies

Students investigate how the environment has inspired artists through content, theme, style, techniques and materials. Students examine how environmental issues of the past, present and future have been — and continue to be — an inspiration for artists. Curriculum Links: Visual Arts, Language, Geography

Group Booking - School Studios Program Descriptions

Collograph Printmaking

Students will focus on the elements of design while creating collograph prints using recycled materials. Using water based inks, students will engage in the creative process as they develop printmaking vocabulary. Curriculum: Visual Art

STEAM in the studio

Discover the creative possibilities where art and science collide! With STEAM in the Studio, use watercolour and ink resist to experiment with new creations! Curriculum Links: Kindergarten Curriculum, Visual Art

Students will focus on the elements of design while creating collograph prints using recycled materials. Students will explore printmaking vocabulary as they create their own artworks. Curriculum: Visual Art

Lino Printmaking

Using soft linoleum blocks and carving tools, students will expand their printmaking vocabulary and create bold images while printing on paper and cloth patches. Curriculum Links: Visual Art

Drawing from Observation

In this creative exploration, students will create artworks using watercolour, pen and ink while nurturing observational skills. Students will create vibrant washes with watercolour and collage details with pen and ink. Curriculum Links: Visual Art

SELF-GUIDED

Group booking - school self-guided description.

Book a self guided tour to explore with your class at your own pace. Beginning September 2023, to help provide the best experience all school visits will need to be booked online in advance. Your booking includes quick entry for school groups, access to lunch table seating, access to coatracks, and access to all exhibitions and gallery spaces for the day.

School Visits FAQs

Do i need to be a tap member to book a school visit.

No. All school educators are welcome to book. To learn more about the AGO's free Teachers' Access Program (TAP) and to find out how you can enjoy complimentary General Admission all year long and receive invitations to teacher events, click here .

Are school tours free for TAP members?

No. To provide the best experience and ensure that all school groups have access to lunch table seating, a quick entry, dedicated pick up and drop off locations and access to a coat rack in the Weston Family Learning Centre, all school visits must be booked online in advance and fees apply. Being a member of the AGO’s Teachers’ Access Program entitles teachers to individual free admission to the AGO Collection and special exhibitions throughout the year.

If my group all have annual passes, do I need to schedule and pay for a self-guided tour?

 Annual passes guarantee free admission for individual admission only. To provide the best experience and ensure that all school groups have access to lunch table seating, a quick entry, dedicated pick up and drop off locations and access to a coat rack in the Weston Family Learning Centre, all school visits must be booked online in advance and fees apply. 

Are guided tours offered in French?

French-language guided tours, and artmaking studios are dependent on the availability of museum educators. When booking, please specify that your request is for a French-language tour, and we will do our best to accommodate.

Are parent chaperones included in the cost of a school visit?

Yes, provided that the total group doesn’t exceed 25 persons, and the number of accompanying adults doesn’t exceed the following teacher-student ratio. For groups JK to Grade 3, we ask for one teacher for every five students. For Grade 4 to 6, we ask for one teacher for every eight students. For Grades 7 to 8, we ask for one teacher for every ten students, and for Grades 9 to 12 we want one teacher for every twelve students. For more information, please contact [email protected] .

What teacher resources are available ahead of my visit?  

Free downloadable materials, including artist spotlights and videos, are available here . To download a map of the AGO, click here .

How long and when do you offer the guided tours?

All guided tours and studio programs are 75 minutes long. Guided tours are offered Tuesday through Friday, and studio programs are available on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Fridays.

Who do I contact for help with the booking form?

For all questions regarding school visits at the AGO, please contact [email protected]

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